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 Extreme Heat Alert: Stay Safe and
Find Cool Places to Go
The National Weather Service has issued multiple heat alerts for San Bernardino County this week, and dangerously hot temperatures are expected for the next several days. The desert will feel the greatest impact, with some communities hitting afternoon high temperatures that exceed 110°F.
Safety Tips to Beat the Heat:
✅ Drink plenty of water and sports drinks
✅ Stay in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible
✅ Avoid direct sun and limit outdoor activity between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
✅ Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing
✅ Never leave children or pets in vehicles
✅ Check on neighbors, relatives, and anyone without air conditioning
If your home gets too hot, consider visiting local libraries, shopping centers, and community centers. The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health maintains a list of “Cool Places” to escape the heat, available at dph.sbcounty.gov. For more extreme heat safety tips, visit prepare.sbcounty.gov.
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Big Bear Lake Job Fair & Resource Event Returns August 28
Looking for a new career or valuable resources? The 2025 Big Bear Lake Job Fair and Resource Event is a great place to start! It's set to take place on Thursday, August 28, at Hofert Hall, 39707 Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake. Job seekers can connect with employers in healthcare, retail, hospitality, utilities, and other industries. Employers can also meet qualified candidates who are ready to work.
In addition to career opportunities, attendees can access various county services. Representatives from San Bernardino County Workforce Development, Public Defender, Human Resources, the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk's Office, and the Department of Veterans Affairs will be on-site. Services will include vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, notary public filings, fictitious business names, record-clearing and expungement support, and veterans' benefits assistance.
This event provides residents with tools to start fresh and build their future. Those seeking veterans' benefits support, record-clearing assistance, or specialized employment resources should register in advance by visiting the official Eventbrite registration page.
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 Around the Third District
Left: Supervisor Rowe attended the beam signing ceremony for the new Yucca Valley Aquatics and Recreation Center, a project that will benefit Yucca Valley and the entire Morongo Basin community. Learn more at yucca-valley.org.
Top right: Supervisor Rowe joined Assemblyman Tom Lackey and San Bernardino County Assistant Fire Chief Bill Villarino at the grand reopening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Stater Brothers in Twentynine Palms. The event honored military and first responders, awarded $25,000 to local nonprofits, and concluded with a flag-raising by Marines from the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in 29 Palms.
Bottom right: Supervisor Dawn Rowe visited Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy with founders Angelica and Sal Manzo. The nonprofit provides equine-assisted therapy to help children, families, veterans, and first responders build resilience and strengthen community connections. Discover what’s happening at the ranch and how to support their mission at wellnessranchtherapy.org.
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 Line Fire Recovery Shows the Power of Preparedness and Partnership
In the aftermath of the September 2024 Line Fire, the San Bernardino County Flood Control District undertook a major emergency operation to protect Highland from flooding and infrastructure damage. Over the following nine months, crews worked day and night to remove over 80,000 cubic yards of mud, sediment, and burn debris from flood basins, storm channels, and city streets. This large-scale cleanup proved critical when winter storms threatened the fire-scarred hillsides.
The recovery effort spanned key flood control sites such as Cook Canyon Basin, Elder Creek Basin, Oak Creek Basin, and Plunge Creek Channel, as well as major Highland roadways, including Old Green Spot Road, Church Street, and Ypsilantha Street. Backed by a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Highland, the Flood Control District’s teams and 30 contracted operators and truck drivers stabilized roads, reduced flood risk, and restored access to neighborhoods. The East Valley Water District, whose infrastructure was also protected, formally recognized the effort at its July 23 board meeting, with General Manager Michael Moore calling it “a coordinated operation to protect our community” and thanking the County team for safeguarding vital water systems.
San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chair and 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Rowe accepted the proclamation on behalf of Flood Control, praising the $3.4 million operation as a model of preparedness and collaboration. She commended the crews for their commitment to protecting lives, property, and infrastructure in Highland. The project restored essential facilities and strengthened the city’s resilience against future natural disasters through coordinated, proactive action.
 Basin Transit Offers Free Rides for Students All Year
Getting around the Morongo Basin has never been easier for local students. From July 2025 through June 2026, Basin Transit offers free rides for all K-12 students as part of the Students Ride Free program.
No bus pass is required—students simply show a school or government-issued ID to hop on board. Children 5 and under continue to ride for free without an ID. This program allows students to travel safely to school, after-school activities, jobs, or hang out with friends, all without the cost of a fare.
The Low Carbon Transit Operations Program funds the Students Ride Free initiative, which supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve mobility, especially in disadvantaged communities. Plan your travel and check out all available routes in the Morongo Basin at basin-transit.com.
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 Temporary Closure of Johnson Valley Shared Use Area for Military Training
The Johnson Valley Shared Use Area will be closed to the public to support vital military training exercises conducted by the U.S. Marine Corps. This temporary closure is designed to ensure the safe execution of live-fire drills and other essential training activities without risk to civilian visitors. The upcoming closure will be in effect from Thursday, August 14, through Monday, August 25.
While access to the Shared Use Area is restricted during this time, the nearby Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Area will remain open for public use. Off-road enthusiasts seeking alternative destinations are encouraged to visit other popular OHV sites such as Stoddard Valley OHV Area and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area.
The Marine Corps issues closure notices well in advance to help the public plan accordingly. For detailed information, including maps of the Johnson Valley Shared Use Area and the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center boundaries, please visit www.29palms.marines.mil or email the Marine Corps by clicking here.
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New Pedestrian Bridge Completed at Calico Ghost Town
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Works—Special Districts is proud to announce the completion of the Calico Ghost Town Bridge Replacement Project. After visible deterioration was discovered during routine inspections, a structural engineering firm recommended completely replacing the aging structure. The bridge was replaced with a weather-resistant steel bridge, ensuring safe access to the park’s historic facilities for visitors, staff, and residents.
The upgraded bridge improves safety and accessibility and preserves the integrity of Calico’s authentic 1880s theme. The project reflects the County’s commitment to protecting and enhancing public spaces that inspire community pride and celebrate our local heritage. Before and after pictures of the bridge project are available here.
This new bridge enhances the experience at Calico Ghost Town, a regional park near Barstow that draws guests from across the country and worldwide. Founded in 1881 during California’s Silver Rush, Calico was later restored by Walter Knott in the 1950s and designated a State Historical Landmark. Today, Calico offers a unique blend of history and recreation, including shops, restaurants, camping, hiking, and off-roading. Learn more about upcoming events and plan your trip at parks.sbcounty.gov.
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 San Bernardino County Museum Hosts First-Ever Teacher Open House
The San Bernardino County Museum invites educators to its inaugural Educator Open House on Thursday, August 21, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Redlands. This free event is open to all K–12 teachers, school administrators, curriculum coordinators, and homeschool networks across the Inland Empire. Attendees can preview interactive exhibits, explore classroom resources, and meet the museum’s education staff to learn how local history, culture, and science can enhance their lesson plans.
The evening will feature engaging exhibits and cart talk programs, networking with fellow educators, community resource vendors, a museum resource raffle, and light refreshments. “This event is our way of thanking educators for their work and showing them how the museum can partner in their classrooms,” said Erica Watkins, Museum Educator.
Click here to email questions or call 909-798-8610. Educators can use this link to RSVP. Admission is free with a valid school ID or district email. The museum is at 2024 Orange Tree Lane in Redlands, off the California Street exit from I-10.
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 CHP Offers Free Driving Education for Teens and Parents
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) invites young drivers and their parents to attend Start Smart, a free class to promote safe and responsible driving. The next session will occur on Thursday, August 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Morongo Basin CHP office, 63683 29 Palms Highway in Joshua Tree.
Start Smart covers safe driving practices, rules of the road, graduated driver license requirements, and collision avoidance techniques. Teens and their parents will also receive guidance on reducing risks and staying safe behind the wheel.
Space is limited, and registration is required. Contact Public Information Officer A. Nava at 760-366-3707 to sign up and visit CHP-Morongo Basin on Facebook to learn more. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare together for a safer driving future!
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 Click here to have The Rowe Report sent directly to your email.
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These ongoing construction and improvement projects may impact your travel time.
Plan ahead and drive safely!
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SR-18 Emergency Maintenance Project
Caltrans continues its emergency project on State Route 18 (SR-18) in the San Bernardino Mountains. Crews are working to repair the retaining wall in the “Narrows” between the SR-138/SR-18 connector and Crest Forest Drive. This section of SR-18 will be fully closed daily from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
SR-18 Emergency Maintenance Project
SR-247 Roadway Improvement
Pavement rehabilitation and shoulder widening improvements on SR-247 near Yucca Valley continue. For the week of August 10, night flagging will begin at northbound SR-247 near Gleason Road. Crews will work Sunday through Thursday from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with occasional Friday and Saturday work. The project runs from the SR-62 junction to Gin Road and will continue through fall 2025.
SR-247 Roadway Improvement
SR-173 Pavement Rehabilitation
Caltrans continues a pavement rehabilitation project on State Route 173, from the SR-138 junction to about a half-mile east of Arrowhead Lake Road. Nighttime construction is scheduled Monday through Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., with one-way traffic control in both directions. The project, which aims to improve road safety and driving conditions, is expected to wrap up by late summer 2025.
SR-173 Pavement Rehabilitation
SR-330 Emergency Maintenance Project
Caltrans continues phase 2 of emergency repairs on SR-330 to fix a damaged culvert caused by the Line Fire. Work continues Monday, August 11, through Friday, August 15, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Expect possible flagging operations or shoulder closures between postmile 34 and postmile 41.82 at Live Oak Avenue.
SR-330 Emergency Maintenance Project
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Free Movie Night - Twentynine Palms
Thursday, August 7
Stoneface - Big Bear Lake
Friday, August 8
Big Bear Theatre Project presents Stoneface (The Rise and Fall and Rise of Buster Keaton), a captivating play that explores the legendary silent film star’s super stardom, struggles, and redemption. Starring French Stewart as Buster Keaton, this production brings Keaton's story to life with a unique blend of comedy, silent film vignettes, and theatrical magic. Visit bigbeartheatreproject.org to learn more.
Free Summer Concert Series - Yucca Valley
Saturday, August 9
Get ready for a tropical evening with the Buffett Beach Band, a Jimmy Buffett tribute show at the Yucca Valley Community Center on Saturday, August 9. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and the free concert starts at 7:00 p.m. Bring a blanket, chairs, your family, and your Parrothead spirit! Call 760-369-7211 for concert information or click here.
Coffee With a Cop - Barstow
Tuesday, August 12
Join the Barstow Police Department for Coffee With a Cop on Tuesday, August 12, from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Starbucks, 1620 E. Main in Barstow. This is an excellent opportunity to meet local officers, ask questions, and enjoy a casual conversation over coffee. There will be no speeches or agendas, just a chance for community members to connect with those who serve the community. The Barstow Police Department's Facebook page has the event details available.
Peanuts Paintfest - Needles
Tuesday, August 12
Needles — the home of Snoopy's brother, Spike — invites you to the Peanuts Paintfest on Tuesday, August 12. The Colorado River Medical Center at 1401 Bailey Avenue in Needles is the site for a fun community painting event celebrating the 50th anniversary of Spike's debut. The celebration includes a Kids Art Show, Cakewalk, and Ice Cream Social. Details are available on the Needles News Facebook page.
Redlands Bowl Season Finale - Redlands
Friday, August 15
The Redlands Bowl wraps up its season with the Fireworks Finale featuring Pictures at an Exhibition: The Paintings of Bob Peak on Friday, August 15. This acclaimed production combines world-class music with Bob Peak's iconic artwork. The Redlands Symphony, conducted by Ransom Wilson, will bring this extraordinary evening to life under the stars. Visit redlandsbowl.org for event information.
Hot August Nights GT - Grand Terrace
Saturday, August 16
Hot August Nights GT is coming to Grand Terrace on Saturday, August 16, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. The Greater Grand Terrace Chamber of Commerce-led event will feature classic cars, fun games, lively music, delicious bites from local vendors, and the best of the Grand Terrace business community. Don’t miss the fun of this summer celebration at 12210 Michigan Street in Grand Terrace. Learn more here.
Switchfoot Concert - Yucaipa
Sunday, August 17
Multi-Platinum band Switchfoot takes the outdoor stage at the beautiful Yucaipa Performing Arts Center on Sunday, August 17. Known for their uplifting and emotionally charged alternative rock, the band has performed to over 5 million fans across 40 countries. Don’t miss this chance to experience their electrifying live performance under the stars in Yucaipa. Visit yucaipaperformingarts.org for details.
State of the City - Highland
Thursday, August 28
The 2025 Highland State of the City Address with Mayor Penny Lilburn is set for a 5:30 p.m. start on Thursday, August 28, at the Sterling Natural Resource Center, in San Bernardino. Hear about Highland's recent accomplishments and get a sneak peek at what's ahead for the city. For more information, call 909-864-6861 ext. 203 or visit the City of Highland's Facebook page.
To see more events taking place in the Third District, click here to visit our website.
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San Bernardino Office
385 N. Arrowhead Ave., Fifth Floor
San Bernardino, CA 92415
909-387-4855 |
Joshua Tree Office
63665 Twentynine Palms Highway
Joshua Tree, CA 92252
760-366-1488 |
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